Category: World News

Categories
-Top News India News World News

CARICOM Applauds Modi’s Leadership

PM Modi assured CARICOM of continued help and cooperation when the region and the Global South have been hit hard by the new challenges the world is facing…reports Asian Lite News

Leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) of nations have expressed their gratitude to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for becoming the voice of the Global South and putting the concerns of the Caribbean nations on the world’s agenda.

Responding to them at the second India-CARICOM Summit on Wednesday, PM Modi assured them of continued help and cooperation when the region and the Global South have been hit hard by the new challenges the world is facing.

India has always responded to the concerns of the Global South, he said.

CARICOM’s Chairman Dickon Mitchell said, “I express on behalf of all of CARICOM citizens, our deep gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and the government and great people of India for India’s proactive and influential role in championing the ideals and aspirations of the Global South.”

Mitchell, who is also the Prime Minister of Grenada, said, “We commend India’s unwavering commitment to the sustainable development of our region, especially in this intricate and interconnected era of globalisation.”

He told the CARICOM leaders that PM Modi’s “commitment to fostering international partnerships and his dedication to sustainable development has set a remarkable example for us all”.

He mentioned India’s donation of Covid vaccines to the CARICOM countries and said “It demonstrated that at the time of its own great need, it cared enough about its brothers and sisters within CARICOM”.

He said that PM Modi’s “visionary leadership has been instrumental in strengthening the ties between India and CARICOM”.

Mitchell added, “His leadership has not only propelled India to new heights, but it has also opened new avenues for collaboration with our region” and noted India’s emergence as the fastest-growing major economy.

“Our collaboration spans various sectors, including trade, technology, healthcare, education, and climate resilience, each contributing to the sustainable development and prosperity of our regions” and “India’s expertise in such key areas as agriculture, energy, health, human resource development, and information and communications technology” can help the region, he said.

CARICOM Summit’s host, Guyana’s President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, told PM Modi that with his “visionary leadership, India has become an influential voice in the international community, you are emerging as the voice of the Global South”.

India’s leadership of the G20 and its role in BRICS, the group of emerging major economies, and PM Modi’s “steadfast advocacy for the developing world underscores your commitment to advancing the aspirations of the Global South,” Ali said.

“These initiatives have elevated India’s stature and placed the concerns of developing nations, including the small island developing low-lying coastal states of the Caribbean, formally on the global agenda,” he added.

He said that PM Modi’s “steadfast advocacy for the developing world” and “advancing aspirations and Global South” have raised his stature.

Ali told PM Modi that this was an occasion for the leaders of CARICOM “to thank you and the people of India for your selfless attributes when you deliver to this region or a forest set of vaccines during the Covid pandemic”.

ALSO READ: Leaders of Guyana, Barbados welcome PM Modi at airport 

Categories
Health Lifestyle World News

Parkinson’s may surge to 3.15 million worldwide by 2033

It showed that the US is predicted to have the highest number of diagnosed prevalent cases of Parkinson’s…reports Asian Lite News

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is expected to increase to 3.15 million in 2033 from 2.64 million in 2023, at an annual growth rate (AGR) of 1.94 per cent, according to a report on Monday.

The report by GlobalData, a data and analytics company, showed the rise in prevalence of diagnosed cases of the progressive brain disorder will specifically be seen in the seven major countries — the US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, and Japan.

It showed that the US is predicted to have the highest number of diagnosed prevalent cases of Parkinson’s (1.24 million). Italy, with nearly 0.16 million cases, will have the lowest number.

“In 2023, adults aged 60 and older accounted for over 90 per cent of diagnosed prevalent cases of PD, while adults ages 18-39 made up less than 1 per cent. This age distribution aligns with findings showing higher PD prevalence among older populations,” said Rahul N Ravi, Senior Epidemiologist at GlobalData.

“There is a slight predominance of sex-specific diagnosed prevalent cases favouring men. Differences across the sexes and markets may be mostly attributed to differences in the underlying demographic differences in each market, as well as the significant differences in sex-specific diagnosed prevalence,” Ravi added.

PD is an incurable neurodegenerative disease clinically categorised as a movement disorder with prominent motor symptoms, including tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. It is the second most common chronic progressive neurodegenerative disorder in the elderly, after Alzheimer’s disease.

While current treatments provide symptomatic relief, there is no cure available to halt or slow the progression of the disease.

“PD is among the most common chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorders affecting the elderly population. As PD predominantly impacts older adults, countries with growing ageing populations must develop strategies to address the healthcare needs of individuals with PD,” Ravi said.

He added that in the coming 10 years, the seven countries with the highest risk are expected to be crucial for PD treatment due to their ageing populations.

ALSO READ: Jivan Room: A Hair Sanctuary in Mayfair, London

Categories
-Top News India News World News

Leaders of Guyana, Barbados welcome PM Modi at airport 

During his visit, PM Modi will address a special sitting of Guyana’s parliament….reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday was received by President of Guyana Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister of Grenada Dickon Mitchell, the Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley along with four ministers from Guyana at a hotel in Georgetown. 

Earlier in an unprecedented gesture, PM Modi was received at the airport by President Irfan Ali, PM Mark Anthony Phillips and over a dozen Cabinet ministers. He has become the first Indian PM to visit the South American country in 56 years. 

During his visit, PM Modi will address a special sitting of Guyana’s parliament. He will also join leaders from the Caribbean partner countries for the 2nd India-CARICOM Summit. 

Randhir Jaiswal took to social media platform X to post, “A special welcome! PM @narendramodi lands in Georgetown on a State visit to Guyana. In a special gesture, PM was warmly received by President @DrMohamedIrfaa1, PM Mark Anthony Phillips & Cabinet Ministers of & was accorded a ceremonial welcome, on arrival at the airport. This is the first visit by an Indian PM to Guyana in 56 years.” 

In a press briefing ahead of the PM’s visit to Guyana, the Ministry of External Affairs noted that the Prime Minister’s visit comes at the invitation of Guyanese President Mohammad Irfaan Ali. 

Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar said, “Recently, there has been an uptick in high-level contacts between India and Guyana. President Irfaan Ali himself was a chief guest at Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in January 2023”. 

Elaborating on the Guyana visit, Mazumdar said that the PM will engage in delegation-level talks with President Irfaan Ali. 

The MEA official further said that Guyana is the fastest-growing economy in the world and asserted that India in future will get the opportunity to partner with them in various fields. “It is the fastest-growing economy in the world, and we will have opportunities for partnering with them in diverse fields,” Mazumdar said. 

“My visit to Guyana, at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, will be the first-ever visit of an Indian Prime Minister in over 50 years. We will exchange views on giving strategic direction to our unique relationship, which is based on shared heritage, culture and values. I will also pay my respects to one of the oldest Indian diaspora, who migrated more than 185 years ago, and engage a fellow democracy, as I address their Parliament,” the Prime Minister had earlier noted. (ANI) 

ALSO READ: Palestine Grateful for India’s Support

Categories
-Top News India News World News

Modi, Lula hold crucial talks 

The two leaders discussed a wide range of sectors, including energy, biofuels, defence, agriculture, and more, with a focus on improving cooperation…reports Asian Lite News 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties between India and Brazil. 

The two leaders also discussed a wide range of sectors, including energy, biofuels, defence, agriculture, and more, with a focus on improving cooperation. 

Sharing a post on X, Modi wrote, “Held talks with President Lula during the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Complimented him on various efforts of Brazil during their G20 Presidency.” 

“We took stock of the full range of bilateral ties between our nations and reaffirmed our commitment to improving cooperation in sectors like energy, biofuels, defence, agriculture and more,” the post added. 

Meanwhile, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also spoke about the meeting between Modi and Brazilian President and said that Modi assured India’s support to Brazil’s initiative of Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty. 

Sharing a post on X, Jaiswal wrote, “India-Brazil — Building ties with an important Global South partner. PM @narendramodi met President @LulaOficial of Brazil, on the sidelines of the #G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro. He thanked President Lula for successfully hosting the #G20 Summit.” 

The post added, “PM assured India’s full support to Brazil’s initiative of ‘Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty.’ Discussions focused on exploring opportunities for greater cooperation in renewable energy, biofuels, defence, agriculture, healthcare, and digital technology.” 

Meanwhile, Lula lauded India’s “level of efficiency” in organising the G20 Summit last year and stated that Rio has tried to take inspiration from New Delhi while hosting the summit this year, sources said. 

While opening the bilateral meeting, President Lula told Modi that Brazil wanted to reach the level of efficiency in organizing the Summit that India had shown last year.” 

According to sources, President Lula told Prime Minister Modi that a lot of things that they have tried to do in their G20 have been inspired from the G20 in India. He added that Brazil wanted to reach the level of efficiency in organizing the Summit that India had shown last year 

The 2024 G20 Summit under the leadership of Brazil saw the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, which gave a call to world leaders to rise up in the fight against hunger and poverty. 

President of Brazil Lula da Silva launched a global alliance against Hunger and Poverty. 

At the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, Lula said, “Hunger and poverty are not the result of scarcity or natural phenomena. It is the product of political decisions that perpetuate the exclusion of a large part of humanity. The G20 represents 85 per cent of the 110 trillion dollars of the global GDP. It also accounts for 75 per cent of the 32 trillion dollars in trade in goods and services and two-thirds of the planet’s 8 billion inhabitants. It is up to those of us gathered around this table to take on the urgent task of ending this scourge that shames humanity.” 

Bringing attention to international reports, he said, “According to the FAO, in 2024 there will be 733 million people still facing undernourishment. It is as if the populations of Brazil, Mexico, Germany, the United Kingdom, South Africa and Canada combined were going hungry. These are women, men, and children whose rights to life, education, development, and food are violated daily. In a world that produces almost 6 billion tons of food per year, this is unacceptable. In a world where military spending reaches 2.4 trillion dollars, this is unacceptable.” 

Modi also welcomed the Brazilian initiative to establish a Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, underlining that the Global South was severely impacted by food, fuel and fertilizer crises created by the ongoing conflicts, and therefore, their concerns ought to be given primacy. 

ALSO READ: Palestine Grateful for India’s Support

Categories
-Top News India News World News

PM Modi to Receive Top Honours from Guyana, Barbados

The award, presented by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, honours PM Modi for his leadership and the improvement of India-Nigeria relations….reports Asian Lite News

Guyana and Barbados are poised to bestow their highest national honours upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi, increasing his total count of international accolades to 19.

Guyana will present ‘The Order of Excellence,’ while Barbados will grant the esteemed ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados’ to the Prime Minister.

Prior to reaching Guyana, Prime Minister Modi wrapped up his trip to Nigeria, where he engaged in fruitful bilateral talks with President Tinubu. During this visit, Nigeria awarded the Prime Minister its top distinction, the ‘Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger’ (GCON).

The award, presented by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, honours PM Modi for his leadership and the improvement of India-Nigeria relations. Notably, the Prime Minister is only the second foreign dignitary to receive the GCON, a recognition that was first given to Queen Elizabeth II in 1969.

“Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India, and we work to deepen and broaden the same to the mutual benefit of our two friendly countries. You represent a very strong commitment to democratic values and norms. You have been doing a good job historically; winning three consecutive elections in a complex society is a feat that we respect so much,” said Tinubu.

“I will confer on you today, the Prime Minister of India, Nigeria’s National Honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger. This to signify Nigerian appreciation and commitment to India as a partner,” he added.

Earlier this week, Dominica announced its highest national honour, the ‘Dominica Award of Honour,’ for PM Modi in acknowledgement of his pivotal support during the Covid-19 pandemic and his commitment to fostering India-Dominica relations.

Dominica’s President Sylvanie Burton is set to confer the award during the India-CARICOM Summit in Guyana, which Prime Minister Modi will be attending personally in the coming week after wrapping up his engagements in the G20 Summit at Rio de Janeiro.

This would eventually take the number of civilian honours received by PM Modi to a record 17, highlighting his leadership and India’s growing stature on the global stage.

It is also a reflection of India’s strengthened diplomatic relationships and the country’s expanding influence.

PM Modi has been conferred highest civilian honours in Saudi Arabia (King Abdulaziz Sash, 2016), Afghanistan (State Order of Ghazi Amir Amanullah Khan, 2016), Palestine (Grand Collar of the State of Palestine Award, 2018), UAE (Order of Zayed Award, 2019), Russia (Order of St. Andrew the Apostle, 2019 – received by PM Modi in July 2024), Maldives (Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddin, 2019), Bahrain (King Hamad Order of the Renaissance, 2019), US (Legion of Merit by the US Armed Forces in 2020), Bhutan (Order of the Druk Gyalpo, 2021) Papua New Guinea (Ebakl Award, 2023), Fiji (Companion of the Order of Fiji, 2023), Papua New Guinea (Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu, 2023), Egypt (Order of Nile, 2023), France (Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, 2023), Greece (Grand Cross of the Order of Honour, 2023).

In addition to these highest civilian honours, PM Modi has received several prestigious awards from renowned global organisations.

In 2018, he was awarded the Seoul Peace Prize by the Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation in recognition of his contributions to global harmony and world peace.

In the same year, the United Nations honoured PM Modi with its highest environmental accolade, the Champions of The Earth Award, for his bold environmental leadership.

In 2019, PM Modi received the first-ever Philip Kotler Presidential Award, which is annually awarded to leaders who demonstrate outstanding national leadership.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation awarded PM Modi the Global Goalkeeper Award in 2019 in recognition of his efforts to transform India’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan into a mass movement for cleanliness.

In 2021, PM Modi received the Global Energy and Environment Leadership Award from Cambridge Energy Research Associates (CERA) in recognition of his leadership on global energy and environmental sustainability.

ALSO READ: Palestine Grateful for India’s Support

Categories
-Top News UAE News World News

UAE allocates $100m to support G20 against hunger, poverty 

H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed praised the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, highlighting its significance as a step forward in shaping global policies that provide sustainable solutions and resources….reports Asian Lite News

On behalf of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, has attended the opening session of the 19th G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where the UAE is participating as a guest country. 

During the session, His Highness delivered the UAE’s address, conveying greetings from His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE President, to the leaders and heads of state attending the summit, extending his wishes for a successful summit. 

H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also thanked Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, for inviting the UAE to participate in the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, commending Brazil’s efforts to ensure the summit’s success. 

H.H. praised the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, highlighting its significance as a step forward in shaping global policies that provide sustainable solutions and resources. 

Reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to its enduring partnership with the G20, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced that the UAE is allocating $100 million through the UAE Aid Agency, aligning with the global efforts of the alliance. 

H.H. highlighted the UAE’s dedication to supporting global initiatives to combat hunger and poverty at regional and international levels, reinforcing efforts to promote development, peace, and prosperity. 

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi is accompanied by an official delegation, including Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment; Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council; Saleh Ahmad Salem Alsuwaidi, Ambassador of the UAE to Brazil; and Waleed Al Mokarrab Al Muhairi, Deputy Group CEO at Mubadala. 

The 19th G20 summit is taking place from 18-19 November2024 in Rio de Janeiro under the theme Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet. The sessions focus on critical global issues, including enhancing global governance, combating hunger and poverty, addressing climate challenges, advancing the transition to clean and renewable energy, and fostering comprehensive and sustainable development across social, economic, and environmental sectors. 

This marks the UAE’s fifth participation as a guest at the G20, following its engagement in Brazil this year, India in 2023, Indonesia in 2022, Saudi Arabia in 2020, and France in 2011. 

ALSO READ: UAE hails COP29 progress on Loss and Damage Fund 

ALSO READ: UAE continues sending aid to Lebanese women 

Categories
-Top News India News World News

Modi interacts with world leaders at G20  

PM shares details of his discussions through a series of posts on X, highlighting his engagements with global leaders including Egyptian President, South Korean President, and Ursula von der Leyen …reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following a busy first day at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, engaged in crucial bilateral meetings and several interactions on Monday.  

The Prime Minister shared details of his discussions through a series of posts on X, highlighting his engagements with global leaders including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. 

Upon meeting the European Commission President Modi said, “India will keep working closely with the EU for global good.” 

On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi held an important meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Describing the meeting as “extremely productive,” Modi emphasized the significance of India’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the UK. “In the coming years, we are eager to work closely in areas such as technology, green energy, security, innovation, and technology. We also want to add strength to trade as well as cultural linkages,” PM Modi wrote on social media. 

Modi also met with French President Emmanuel Macron, where the two leaders shared a warm embrace and congratulated each other on the successful hosting of the Paris Olympics and Paralympics earlier this year. Their discussions centered around strengthening cooperation in space, energy, artificial intelligence (AI), and other future-oriented sectors. “We talked about how India and France will keep working closely in sectors like space, energy, AI, and other such futuristic areas. Our nations will also work closely to enhance people-to-people linkages,” PM Modi shared on X. 

Both leaders embraced as Modi referred to Macron as his “friend” and congratulated him on the successful hosting of the Paris Olympics and Paralympics earlier this year. 

PM Modi stated that their discussions focused on strengthening ties in key areas such as space, energy, artificial intelligence (AI), and other future-oriented sectors. 

“It is always a matter of immense joy to meet my friend, President Emmanuel Macron. Complimented him on the successful hosting of the Paris Olympics and Paralympics earlier this year. We talked about how India and France will keep working closely in sectors like space, energy, AI, and other such futuristic areas. Our nations will also work closely to enhance people-to-people linkages,” Modi wrote on X. 

In his meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, Modi discussed ways to improve investment linkages, particularly in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and the blue economy. Modi called the meeting “excellent” and highlighted how both nations could enhance cooperation in innovation and research. “Our Arctic Policy has led to further cementing of India-Norway bilateral relations,” Modi noted. 

Additionally, Modi held talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, focusing on strengthening defense, security, trade, and technology ties. Modi underscored the importance of the India-Italy relationship, saying, “India-Italy friendship can greatly contribute to a better planet.” 

Modi stated that their discussions focused on strengthening ties in defence, security, trade, and technology. He remarked, “India-Italy friendship can greatly contribute to a better planet.” 

“Glad to have met Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the Rio de Janeiro G20 Summit. Our talks centred around deepening ties in defence, security, trade, and technology. We also discussed ways to boost cooperation in culture, education, and other such areas. India-Italy friendship can greatly contribute to a better planet,” Modi shared on social media platform X. 

Modi held bilateral meeting with Indonesia and Portugal at the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil. 

Modi along with the Indian contingent, including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and his contingent. Modi highlighted that their talks were focused on improving ties in commerce, security, and more. 

“Delighted to meet President Prabowo Subianto during the G20 Summit in Brazil. This year is special as we are marking 75 years of India-Indonesia diplomatic relations. Our talks focussed on improving ties in commerce, security, healthcare, pharmaceuticals and more,” PM Modi said on X. 

Minister of External Affairs official spokeperson Randhir Jaiswal, taking to X, said that Modi assured Prabowo of expanding the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. 

“India-Indonesia, Commemorating 75 years of warm and friendly ties! PM Narendra Modi met President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia on the sidelines of the G20 Brazil Summit. PM congratulated President Prabowo and assured him of India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, in existing domains as well as expand it to newer areas.” Jaiswal wrote on X. 

Modi also held a bilateral meeting with the PM of Portugal Luis Montenegro where they focused on strengthening economic partnership. PM Modi said that both countries explored opportunities for more collaboration in sectors like renewable energy and green hydrogen. 

“Had a very good meeting with Prime Minister of Portugal, Mr. Luis Montenegro. India cherishes the long-standing ties with Portugal. Our talks focussed on adding more vigour to our economic linkages. Sectors like renewable energy and green hydrogen offer many opportunities for more collaboration. We also talked about strong defence relations, people-to-people linkages and other such subjects,” Modi wrote on X. 

Earlier in the day, Modi met with President of Spain Pedro Sanchez on the sidelines of G20 summit. On the first day of the G20 Summit, Modi had a packed schedule, holding bilateral meetings with leaders from the UK, France, Italy, Norway, Portugal, and Indonesia. (ANI) 

ALSO READ: Biden, Modi Cap Partnership at G20 Summit

Categories
-Top News World World News

UN faces uncertainty as Trump returns   

Speculation about Trump’s future policies has already become a parlor game among wags in Washington and beyond, and reading the signals on issues important to the UN isn’t always easy…reports Asian Lite News

 

The United Nations and other international organizations are bracing for four more years of Donald Trump, who famously tweeted before becoming president the first time that the 193-member UN was just a club for people to get together, talk and have a good time. 

In his first term, Trump suspended funding for the UN health and family planning agencies, withdrew from its cultural organisation and top human rights body, and jacked up tariffs on China and even longtime US allies by flaunting the World Trade Organization’s rulebook. The United States is the biggest single donor to the United Nations, paying 22per cent of its regular budget. 

Trump’s take this time on the world body began taking shape this week with his choice of Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York for US ambassador to the UN. 

Stefanik, the fourth-ranking House member, called last month for a complete reassessment of US funding for the United Nations and urged a halt to support for its agency for Palestinian refugees, or UNRWA. President Joe Biden paused the funding after UNRWA fired several staffers in Gaza suspected of taking part in the Oct 7, 2023, attack led by Hamas. 

Speculation about Trump’s future policies has already become a parlor game among wags in Washington and beyond, and reading the signals on issues important to the UN isn’t always easy. 

For example, Trump once called climate change a hoax and has supported the fossil fuel industry but has sidled up to the environmentally minded Elon Musk. His first administration funded breakneck efforts to find a COVID-19 vaccine, but he has allied with anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The funny thing is that Trump does not really have a fixed view of the UN, said Richard Gowan, UN director for the International Crisis Group think tank. 

Gowan expects that Trump won’t view the world body as a place to transact serious political business but will instead exploit it as a theater to pursue a conservative global social agenda. 

There are clues from his first term. Trump pulled the US out of the 2015 Paris climate accord and is likely to do it again after President Joe Biden rejoined. 

Trump also had the US leave the cultural and educational agency Unesco and the UN-backed Human Rights Council, claiming they were biased against Israel. Biden went back to both before recently opting not to seek a second consecutive term on the council. 

Trump cut funding for the UN population agency for reproductive health services, claiming it was funding abortions. UNFPA says it doesn’t take a position on abortion rights, and the US rejoined. 

He had no interest in multilateralism countries working together to address global challenges in his first term. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls it the cornerstone of the United Nations. 

The world is a different place than when Trump bellowed America First while taking office in 2017: Wars have broken out in the Middle East, Ukraine and Sudan. North Korea’s nuclear arsenal has grown, and so have fears about Iran’s rapidly advancing atomic program. 

The UN Security Council more deeply divided among its veto-wielding permanent members Britain, China, France, Russia and the US has made no progress in resolving those issues. Respect for international law in war zones and hotspots worldwide is in shreds. 

It’s really back to Cold War days, said John Bolton, a former national security adviser at Trump’s White House. He said Russia and China are flying cover for countries like Iran, which has stirred instability in the Middle East, and North Korea, which has helped Russia in its war in Ukraine. There’s little chance of deals on proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or resolving conflicts involving Russia or China at the council, he said. 

Bolton, a former US ambassador to the UN, expects Stefanik will have a tougher time because of the range of issues facing the Security Council. “What had been fairly sleepy during the first Trump term is not going to be sleepy at all in the second Trump term,” he said. 

The Security Council has been impotent on Ukraine since Russia’s February 2022 invasion because of Russia’s veto power. And it has failed to adopt a resolution with teeth demanding a cease-fire in Gaza because of US support for Israel. 

The Crisis Group’s Gowan said Republicans in Congress are furious about UN criticisms of Israeli policies in Gaza and he expects them to urge Trump to “impose severe budget cuts on the UN, and he will do so to satisfy his base. 

The day-to-day aid work of global institutions also faces uncertainty. In Geneva, home to many UN organisations focusing on issues like human rights, migration, telecommunications and weather, some diplomats advise wait-and-see caution and say Trump generally maintained humanitarian aid funding in his first term. 

Trade was a different matter. Trump bypassed World Trade Organization rules, imposing tariffs on steel and other goods from allies and rivals alike. Making good on his new threats, like imposing 60per cent tariffs on goods from China, could upend global trade. 

ALSO READ: UAE hails COP29 progress on Loss and Damage Fund 

Categories
India News World World News

Modi heads for G20 summit 

Modi arrived in Brazil after concluding his first leg visit to Nigeria where he held talks with Nigerian President focusing on strengthening partnership in sectors like defence, technology, health, and education…reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro on Monday on the second leg of his three-nation visit to attend the 19th edition of the G20 Leaders’ Summit. He was received by Indian delegates led by Indian Ambassador to Brazil Suresh Reddy. 

In a post on X, Modi expressed his anticipation to engage in the Summit deliberations and fruitful talks with world leaders. “Landed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to take part in the G20 Summit. I look forward to the Summit deliberations and fruitful talks with various world leaders,” he said. 

Modi arrived in Brazil after concluding his first leg visit to Nigeria where he held fruitful discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focusing on strengthening their partnership in sectors like defence, technology, health, and education. 

In the G20 summit, India, as a Troika member, will play a significant role in shaping the agenda, building on the momentum from its own G20 presidency. Brazil is expected to maintain the focus on Global South priorities, ensuring continuity and progress on key issues. 

Modi stated earlier that after India’s successful presidency at the G20 Summit last year, Brazil is expected to continue efforts to advance the Global South’s priorities. 

“In Brazil, I will attend the 19th G-20 Summit as a Troika member. Last year, India’s successful Presidency elevated the G-20 to people’s G-20 and mainstreamed the priorities of the Global South into its Agenda. This year, Brazil has built upon India’s legacy. I look forward to meaningful discussions in keeping with our vision of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future.’ I will also use the opportunity to exchange views on furthering bilateral cooperation with several other leaders,” Modi said.  

During his trip to Nigeria, Modi held a fruitful discussion with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focusing on strengthening their partnership in sectors like defence, technology, health, and education. The two leaders also agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South. Additionally, India announced it would send 20 tons of humanitarian aid to support Nigeria’s flood relief efforts. 

Modi’s visit to Nigeria is part of his three-nation tour, which will also take him to Brazil and Guyana from November 17 to 21. 

Sharing a post on X, Modi wrote, “Thank you Nigeria for a productive visit, which will add strength and vigour to India-Nigeria friendship.  

During the visit, Modi and Nigerian President Tinubu discussed “global and regional issues” and agreed to work together to “meet development aspirations of the Global South.” 

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said, “Strengthening longstanding relations between the world’s largest democracy and Africa’s largest democracy. PM Narendra Modi met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria today in Abuja. The leaders discussed ways to further strengthen the India-Nigeria Strategic partnership and enhance cooperation in trade, investment, education, energy, health, defence and security, culture and P2P ties. They also discussed global and regional issues. President Tinubu acknowledged India’s efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the Voice of the Global South Summits. The two leaders agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South.” 

The two countries also signed Memoranda of Understanding on Cultural Exchange Programmes, Customs Cooperation and Survey Cooperation. Along with the PM, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other officials were present. 

Modi also announced that the country would send 20 tons of humanitarian aid to support the relief efforts of the floods. “On behalf of 140 crore Indians, I express condolences over the loss of lives due to flood in Nigeria last month. In support of relief works, India is sending 20 tons of humanitarian aid,” PM Modi said during a meeting with Nigerian President in Abuja. 

Modi was also conferred with Nigeria’s highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, and said that the honour will continue to inspire him to elevate the India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new heights. 

After receiving the honour, Modi said, “I express my heartfelt gratitude to the government and the people of Nigeria for conferring on me the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Nigeria’s national award. I accept this honour with humility and respect. I dedicate this honour to the 140 crore Indians and the deep friendship between India and Nigeria. This award will keep inspiring us to take the India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new heights.” 

He also addressed the Indian diaspora in Abuja and highlighted the shared values of democracy, diversity, and demographic energy between India and Nigeria, and said both countries continue to move forward “together as partners.” 

“Today, India and Nigeria continue to move forward together as partners, reflecting the bond forged during their struggles. India is the mother of democracy, and Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. We both have similarities in democracy, diversity and the energy of demography,” he said. 

Notably, the visit by Modi is the first by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21. 

ALSO READ: Tinubu Applauds Modi’s Global South Push

Categories
-Top News India News World News

Rio de Janeiro Greets Modi

he Prime Minister is in Rio de Janeiro to participate in the G20 Summit hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva….reports Asian Lite News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed his gratitude for a memorable welcome in Rio de Janeiro.

Taking to his X handle, PM Modi posted a video of his arrival at the airport and the warm welcome by the Indian community.

PM Modi wrote, “A celebration of Indian culture in Brazil! Gratitude for a memorable welcome in Rio de Janeiro…”

The Prime Minister is in Rio de Janeiro to participate in the G20 Summit hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

At the airport, the Indian community expressed their enthusiasm for PM Modi’s visit, waving Indian flags, displaying his pictures, singing welcome songs and presenting a folk dance. Some sought PM Modi’s autograph which he gave.

The Prime Minister also shared pictures of his welcome by the diaspora. “Deeply touched by the warm and lively welcome from the Indian community upon arriving in Rio de Janeiro. Their energy reflects the affection that binds us across continents,” the Prime Minister posted on X.

Earlier, PM Modi arrived in Brazil after concluding his first leg visit to Nigeria where he held discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focusing on strengthening partnerships in sectors like defence, technology, health, and education.

In a post on the social media platform X, PM Modi stated, “Landed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to take part in the G20 Summit. I look forward to the Summit deliberations and fruitful talks with various world leaders.”

India is a key member of the G20 Troika, alongside Brazil and South Africa, and has been actively shaping the discussions at the ongoing summit.

During the Summit on Monday, the Prime Minister will put forward India’s positions on various issues of global importance building on the outcomes from the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration and Voice of the Global South Summits hosted by India in the past two years.

“On the sidelines of the G20 Summit, the Prime Minister is expected to meet several leaders,” the MEA said earlier on Friday.

Following the G20 Summit, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Georgetown which would be the first visit to Guyana by an Indian PM since 1968.

During the November 19-21 visit at the invitation of the Guyanese President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Modi will not only hold bilateral discussions and meet other senior leaders of Guyana but also address the Parliament of Guyana and a gathering of the Indian diaspora.

Last year, Ali visited India as the Chief Guest at the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas held in Indore, where he was also awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman.

“In Georgetown, Guyana, the Prime Minister will also participate in the Second CARICOM-India Summit and hold meetings with leaders of CARICOM member countries to further enhance India’s long-standing friendship with the region,” the MEA mentioned.

ALSO READ: Tinubu Applauds Modi’s Global South Push